Key Points:
- Stoffel Vandoorne is confirmed to continue his critical role with Aston Martin through 2026.
- The experienced Belgian will serve as Simulator, Test, and Reserve Driver, ensuring crucial development continuity.
- Jak Crawford will remain the team's Third Driver, positioned as the primary stand-in for race drivers Fernando Alonso or Lance Stroll.
- This strategic announcement coincides with Aston Martin's preparations for the AMR26 shakedown and upcoming 2026 testing.
In a bold declaration of intent for the future, Aston Martin Aramco F1 Team has secured a key pillar of its technical structure, confirming that Stoffel Vandoorne will remain as Simulator, Test, and Reserve Driver through the 2026 Formula 1 season. The move highlights the team’s focus on stability and experience as the sport approaches a major regulatory overhaul.
Strategic Stability: Vandoorne’s Role Secured Through 2026
Aston Martin confirmed that it has retained Vandoorne in his current role, with the Belgian continuing a journey that began in 2023 when he joined the Silverstone outfit alongside then-reserve driver Felipe Drugovich. Since then, Vandoorne has become a trusted figure behind the scenes, playing a vital role in simulator development and technical feedback.
The 33-year-old brings extensive top-level experience. After making his Formula 1 debut with McLaren in 2016, he went on to make 41 race starts and score 26 points. His résumé also includes multiple appearances at the 24 Hours of Le Mans, a runner-up finish in the World Endurance Championship in 2021, and a Formula E title in the 2021–22 season.
Announcing the extension, the team shared: “Momentum continues. Together. Stoffel will remain in his role as Simulator, Test and Reserve Driver in 2026, while Jak continues as the team’s Third Driver.”
Reserve Structure, Fan Reaction, and the Road to AMR26
Aston Martin also clarified its reserve hierarchy for 2026. While Vandoorne focuses on simulator, testing, and development duties, Jak Crawford will continue as the team’s Third Driver. This means that if either Fernando Alonso or Lance Stroll is unable to race, Crawford would be the first option to step into the cockpit.
The decision has been warmly received by fans, with many praising the balance of experience and future potential. One fan commented, “Put him in the main seat and you’ll have 2 competitive drivers,” while another added, “Consistency in the cockpit is a major competitive advantage. This line-up offers the perfect balance of experience and emerging talent.”
The announcement comes during a busy period for the team, with Aston Martin currently involved in private testing for the 2026 season in Barcelona. While testing began earlier this week, the Lawrence Stroll-owned outfit confirmed its own running schedule, telling: “The AMR26 will be in Barcelona later this week for its shakedown. Our intention is to run Thursday and Friday.”
Looking ahead, Aston Martin is set to unveil the AMR26 livery on 9 February, before heading to Bahrain for pre-season testing across two sessions on 11–13 February and 18–20 February. With continuity in key roles and preparations accelerating, the team’s long-term vision for 2026 is firmly taking shape.
